REACh (Registration, Evaluation and Authorisation of Chemicals) is the European chemicals regulation that covers both hazardous and non-hazardous substances. REACh has changed the CLP regulation (Classification, Labelling and Packaging) and the design of the safety data sheet. REACh was introduced to ensure a comprehensive level of protection for the trade and use of chemicals in Europe in order to prevent damage to health and the environment in the future. Furthermore, to bring ‘existing/used substances’ and ‘new substances’ to the same information status. It also acts as a central database for all chemicals used in Europe in quantities of more than one tonne per year.
Safety data sheets The safety data sheet is an instrument for communicating safety-related information on substances and mixtures. The supplier (e.g. manufacturer, importer) must provide a safety data sheet for • substances and mixtures that fulfil the criteria for classification as dangerous • persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic substances • substances of very high concern • certain non-hazardous mixtures containing at least one substance that is hazardous to health or the environment.